Business Desk :
The market for one-time paper cups has multiplied more than six times across the country because of the steady increase in public awareness on the use of eco-friendly products.
Over 20 crore paper cups are currently being sold every month, compared to only 5 crore before the pandemic. Many local paper-cup manufacturers have enjoyed increased profits since the start of the pandemic, says Kazi Sazedur Rahman, president of the Paper Cup Manufacturer Association Bangladesh (PCMAB).
“The cups are easily portable, lightweight and small in size,” Sazed explains the reasons behind the rise in popularity of paper cups at weddings and official events.
“One-time paper cups are also becoming increasingly popular in educational institutions, hospitals, stadiums, and tea stalls,” he says.
“Several local and multinational companies have become regular buyers – having their logos printed on the paper cups,” he adds.
According to experts, while many sectors have suffered huge losses due to Covid-19, the pandemic has proven to be a boon for some others. The coronavirus has brought about significant behavioural changes among people, with many refraining from eating or drinking out of common crockery and/or utensils.
PCMAB leaders hope for sales of 250 crore paper cups worth about Tk350 crore this year, versus last year’s sales of 40 crore. According to the PCMAB, of the 20 crore paper cups used every month in the country, local manufacturers supply 5 crore cups and the remaining are imported – mainly from India, reports TBS.
The association president, Kazi Sazedur Rahman, fears that the excess dependency on imported paper cups – around 75% of the total demand – would ultimately hamper the growth potential of local producers.
